Bronchiectasis

Definition

If the condition is present at birth, it is called congenital bronchiectasis.

If it develops later in life, it is called acquired bronchiectasis.

Alternative Names

Acquired bronchiectasis; Congenital bronchiectasis

Causes

Bronchiectasis is often caused by recurrent inflammation or infection of the airways. It most often begins in childhood as a complication from infection or inhaling a foreign object.

Cystic fibrosis causes about a third of all bronchiectasis cases in the United States. Certain genetic conditions can also cause bronchiectasis, including primary ciliary dyskinesia and immunodeficiency syndromes.

The condition can also be caused by routinely breathing in food particles while eating.

Symptoms

Symptoms often develop gradually, and may occur months or years after the event that causes the bronchiectasis.